Oral hygiene maintains healthy teeth and gums, but it becomes even more important when you have dental implants. Dental implants are popular and effective in replacing missing teeth but require special care to ensure longevity and prevent infections.
This post will discuss keeping an optimal condition of dental implants Singapore.
1. Dental Implants
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Dental implants are popular and effective as missing teeth replacement. These artificial tooth roots placed into the jawbone serve as a foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Dental implants comprise three parts: the crown (tooth), the implant (tooth root), and the abutment that connects them both.
One benefit of dental implants is that they offer a permanent solution for missing teeth. Dental implants last anywhere from 10-30 years with proper care. It makes them a long-lasting and cost-effective option for tooth replacement.
However, it is important to note that maintaining oral hygiene with dental implants is crucial to their longevity. Like natural teeth, dental implants require regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings to prevent infection and maintain oral health.
Inadequate oral hygiene with dental implants can lead to peri-implantitis, an inflammation of the tissue surrounding the implant, causing the implant to fail and require removal.
2. General Oral Hygiene Practices for Dental Implants
Dental implants require a good oral hygiene routine to maintain their longevity and prevent infections. One of the most important practices for dental implant patients is brushing. Using an electric toothbrush with a circular head is recommended, as it can reach hard-to-access areas around the implant. Patients should brush at least twice daily for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing is also crucial for dental implant patients. Floss picks or interdental brushes can be used to clean between the teeth and around the implant. Patients should floss at least once daily to remove food particles and plaque buildup.
Using mouthwash can also be beneficial as it can help kill bacteria causing bad breath and gum disease. When choosing a mouthwash, it is important to look for an alcohol-free, as alcohol can dry out the oral tissues and lead to sensitivity.
3. Foods to Avoid and Consume for Dental Implants
When it comes to dental implants, certain foods can damage dental implants, while others promote healthy maintenance.
It’s best to avoid hard and crunchy foods such as potato chips, taco shells, hard candies, seeds, and nuts. These foods can put too much pressure on the implant, causing it to become loose or even break. Sticky foods like caramel, taffy, and gum should also be avoided as they can get stuck in the implant site and cause problems.
On the other hand, soups, softened pasta, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are excellent options after surgery or during the healing process. These foods are easy to chew and won’t cause any damage to the implant. Soft fruits like peaches, berries, and bananas are also great options.
In addition to avoiding certain foods, consuming foods that promote healthy dental implant maintenance is crucial. Foods high in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus maintain strong and healthy bones supporting dental implants. Milk, cheese, yoghurt, leafy greens, and fish are great sources of these nutrients.
4. Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining dental implants in optimal condition. The importance of seeing a dentist regularly cannot be overstated, especially regarding oral health. Regular dental check-ups help detect potential problems early on, allowing for quick and effective treatment.
Dental check-ups should be at least scheduled twice yearly, but the frequency may vary depending on the individual’s needs. For instance, patients with dental problems may need to schedule more frequent appointments. The dentist will assess the dental implants’ condition and look for any signs of damage or infection.
5. Lifestyle Habits that Affect Dental Implants
Certain lifestyle habits should be avoided when maintaining dental implants’ health. Smoking is one of the most significant factors that negatively impact dental implants. The nicotine substance in cigarettes can restrict blood flow to the gums, weaken the immune system, and make it difficult for the body to heal after implant surgery. Studies show smokers have a 140.2% higher risk of implant failure than non-smokers.
Maintaining a healthy diet is another lifestyle habit affecting dental implant health. Whole foods, fruits, and vegetables diet can give the body the necessary nutrients to maintain healthy teeth and gums. While a high-sugar and processed food diet increases the possibility of developing gum disease and tooth decay, leading to implant failure.
Conclusion
Dental implants are excellent and reliable in replacing missing teeth with prosthetic replacements that work, feel, and look like natural teeth. However, it’s essential to take the time to keep the optimal condition for these implants to ensure their longevity.
To do this, practice effective oral hygiene habits, schedule regular dental exams and cleanings for your implant, avoid sugary drinks and beverages that can damage your implant’s natural enamel coating, and eat healthy foods that are good for teeth and gums. These simple things will ensure your dental implant looks great and functions well for years.
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